(PUNE) Daren Ganga made the most of his opportunity to stake a claim for a place in the West Indies side for the 3rd Test against India by hitting an unbeaten 66 on the first day of the tour match against Railways.

The young Trinidadian has missed out in the first two Tests and has watched from the stands as the home bowlers have romped to a 2-0 lead with minimum effort.

And with the selectors likely to ring the changes for the third game in Kolkata, Ganga played his way into contention with a fine knock which included 11 fours.

Before the start of play, Ganga said: ''I really want to play. I relish the opportunity to be considered for a game on tour and if I am given an opportunity, I hope to do my best.''

While Ganga was impressive, the performance of the day came from opener Chris Gayle, who smashed a wonderful 154 to play his way back into form - he has scored a total of just 72 in four Test innings on tour so far.

The tourists, who also got a fine 50 from Wavell Hinds, amassed 297-2 at stumps.

24 Oct, 2002